The University of Hong Kong
Founded in 1911, The University of Hong Kong has attained pre-eminence as a research-led comprehensive university, comprising 36,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students and more than 8,500 full-time professoriate, academic and professional services staff. Through upholding the highest international standards of excellence in its research pursuits, scholarship, teaching and learning, and service to the community, HKU is consistently ranked amongst the world’s top universities: 11th in the 2026 QS World University Rankings and 2nd in the 2026 QS Asia University Rankings. More information about HKU can be found at https://hku.hk/.
Research Hub of Population Studies
Launched by the Faculty of Social Sciences at The University of Hong Kong, HKU Research Hub of Population Studies aims to provide an understanding of local, national, regional, and international demographic patterns, encompassing six research areas: Ageing, Children and Family, Gender and Sexuality, Health and Mortality, Population and Development, and Urbanisation and Migration. The Hub focuses on multi-disciplinary research concerning various population-related issues and public policy, addressing the global needs for theoretical, methodological, and practical advancements in population and health research. HKU Research Hub of Population Studies is determined to achieve the following: (a) To lead university-wide initiatives to examine the trends, causes, and consequences of population processes; (b) To provide a platform for communication among leading population scientists and dissemination of the latest cutting-edge interdisciplinary population research findings; (c) To serve as a bridge between academia and the wider community on population-relevant issues, facilitating dialogues among academics, policymakers, and community leaders to formulate evidence-based population policies; (d) To develop professional training programmes in Population Studies, equipping students with highly sought-after knowledge in demography and data analysis skills. Further information about the Hub can be obtained at https://www.socsc.hku.hk/rhps/.
Department of Sociology
HKU sociology is one of the leading sociology departments in the world, and we are consistently ranked among the top Sociology departments in Asia. The Department was ranked 17th in the world in 2025 (QS World University Rankings). We offer a range of innovative and engaging taught programmes, including undergraduate major/minor programmes in Sociology, Criminology and Media and Cultural Studies. Our taught postgraduate programmes provide intellectually stimulating advanced study in Criminology and Media, Culture & Creative Cities. We also offer MPhil/PhD programmes that develop outstanding independent researchers. Further information about the Department can be obtained at https://sociology.hku.hk/.
The Position
The Faculty is seeking an outstanding scholar with proven international leadership in research, teaching and knowledge exchange in the field of demography or population studies. Applications are invited for appointment as Professor within the Department of Sociology, with a start date of July 1, 2026 or at the earliest convenience. Direct tenure may be offered to qualified candidates, subject to approval. The successful candidate will be entrusted with leadership roles in the recently established HKU Research Hub of Population Studies for an initial three-year term, renewable subject to mutual agreement.
Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree in Sociology, Demography, Criminology, Anthropology, or related fields, he/she should have a strong research track record with publications in leading academic journals. The appointee is expected to maintain an active research programme, and be responsible for teaching courses and supervising students at both graduate and undergraduate levels, as well as contributing to the administration of academic programmes.
What We Offer
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. At current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of gross income. The appointment will attract a contract- end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.
Nominations and Applications
HKU has retained Perrett Laver Ltd, an executive search firm, to assist with the search. All inquiries, nominations/referrals, and applications (including resume and letter of interest responding to the requirements outlined in the position profile) should be directed in confidence to Mr. Matthew Foreman at [email protected].
Review of nominations and applications will continue until October 31, 2025, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
The University of Hong Kong is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity, and transparency.
